Last Updated on July 20, 2024 by Fumipets
Great Dane Puppy ‘Completely Unaware’ of Size Tries to Squeeze onto Couch
A Tale of Determination and Unawareness
Great Danes are known for their massive size and gentle nature, but they often remain blissfully unaware of their enormity. This charming trait was hilariously highlighted in a TikTok video posted on July 15 by user @lillymygreatdane. The video captures a 24-week-old Great Dane puppy, Lilly, trying to squeeze onto a couch already occupied by a Bernese mountain dog.
The Great Squeeze: A Puppy’s Determination
Finding the Perfect Spot
In the video, Lilly eyes a tiny sliver of space between the armrest and the Bernese mountain dog. Despite the spot being barely the size of her paw, she decides to give it a try. With determination and adorably misplaced confidence, Lilly places one paw after the other onto the couch, wedging herself into the minuscule space and plopping down contentedly. The caption humorously reads, “When you are completely unaware of your size.”
The Bernese’s Reaction
The Bernese mountain dog, though initially unfazed, flashes a bemused “Is this really happening?” look towards the owner as the gentle giant settles in. Lilly, on the other hand, appears completely satisfied with her choice, seemingly convinced that she is a tiny lap dog.
Great Dane Traits: Big Dogs with Big Hearts
Affectionate Giants
According to a Dogster article, Great Danes are affectionate dogs that love to cuddle. Their obliviousness to their size often leads them to believe they can engage in activities suited for smaller dogs, like sitting on laps. This behavior, while endearing, can be a bit overwhelming due to their size.
Training Tips for Great Dane Owners
Owners can train their Great Danes to avoid sitting on laps, particularly in households with children and the elderly. However, if you don’t mind the occasional giant lap dog, this behavior usually isn’t a problem.
Viral Sensation: Lilly’s Couch Adventure
TikTok Fame
Lilly’s couch escapade quickly went viral on TikTok. As of Friday, the clip had garnered over 422,500 views, 9,606 likes, and 86 comments. Viewers were both amused and unsurprised by Lilly’s determination, recognizing it as typical Great Dane behavior.
Viewer Reactions
Comments ranged from jokes about the dog’s persistence to relatable anecdotes from other Great Dane owners. One viewer quipped, “If I fits, I sits,” while another added, “Completely unaware, and apparently clingy!” Other TikTokers shared similar experiences with their own Great Danes, confirming that this behavior doesn’t fade as they grow older. One comment noted, “My Dane is 2 and 170lbs. He does this to me regularly.”
Why Do Great Danes Behave This Way?
Size Awareness in Dogs
Great Danes, despite their size, often perceive themselves as smaller dogs. This lack of size awareness is not uncommon in large breeds and can lead to amusing situations like Lilly’s.
Natural Instincts
Puppies are naturally curious and eager to explore their surroundings. This curiosity, combined with their affectionate nature, often results in behaviors like trying to fit into small spaces or seeking constant physical contact with their owners.
Training and Managing a Great Dane
Socialization and Training
Proper training and socialization are crucial for Great Dane owners. Teaching them to respect personal space and boundaries can help manage their large size in a household setting.
Positive Reinforcement
Using positive reinforcement techniques, such as treats and praise, can effectively train Great Danes to avoid sitting on laps or squeezing into tight spaces. Consistency and patience are key in training these gentle giants.
Conclusion
Lilly’s adorable attempt to squeeze onto the couch, despite her size, highlights the endearing and sometimes comical nature of Great Danes. Their affectionate demeanor and lack of size awareness make them beloved pets, though they may require some training to manage their behaviors. This viral moment serves as a reminder of the joy and laughter our pets bring into our lives, often when we least expect it.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs
1. Why do Great Danes often seem unaware of their size?
Great Danes, like many large breeds, may not fully grasp their size. This can lead to behaviors where they act like smaller dogs, such as trying to sit on laps or squeezing into tight spaces.
2. How can I train my Great Dane to avoid sitting on laps?
Training a Great Dane to avoid sitting on laps involves consistent positive reinforcement. Reward them with treats and praise when they sit in designated areas and gently guide them off laps if they try to sit on them.
3. Are Great Danes good with children and the elderly?
Great Danes are generally gentle and affectionate, making them good companions for children and the elderly. However, due to their size, it’s important to supervise interactions and train them to be mindful of their strength and space.
4. What should I do if my Great Dane displays unwanted behaviors?
If your Great Dane displays unwanted behaviors, consider enrolling them in obedience classes and using positive reinforcement techniques at home. Consistency and patience are key to modifying their behavior.
5. Why do Great Danes seek physical contact with their owners?
Great Danes are known for their affectionate nature and often seek physical contact to feel close to their owners. This behavior is a sign of their strong bond and desire for companionship.
For more heartwarming pet stories, visit the original article on Newsweek.
